Robert Lee Cantrell

A Memorial Service for Robert L. Cantrell will be held at 1:00 on Friday, May 31st at the New Post Chapel, Fort Sill, Oklahoma. A graveside ceremony with military honors and interment will immediately follow at the Fort Sill Post Cemetery at 2:00. A reception for guests, family, and friends will follow at the Fort Sill Patriot Club (Artillery Room) at 3:00.

Robert Lee (Bob) Cantrell passed away at the age of 92 on March 16, 2024, in Athens, Alabama. He was born on July 28, 1931, to Joseph P. and Pauline (Johnson) Cantrell, and attended school and worked in the Athens area until he joined the U.S. Army in 1947. He spent 29 years in distinguished service to his nation and was promoted early throughout his career--ultimately rising to the rank of Command Sergeant Major (E-9). He spent a majority of his career in Field Artillery units at Fort Sill, but also served in other diverse roles—including five tours to Korea, and two tours to Vietnam. He earned numerous career awards including the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, the Bronze Star, and various other personal and unit awards. He retired from the Army in 1976 and worked for the State of Oklahoma for 10 years before fully retiring.

Bob met his wife and love of his life, Kimie, while stationed in Tokyo, Japan, and they were married in 1958. They had two children, Mark and Priscilla. Bob and Kimie made their home in the Lawton Fort Sill area and enjoyed many friendships in the military and local community and strongly supported PTA and church activities. Bob had numerous lifelong friends that shared his passion for fishing and hunting. Kimie spent quality time with many close friends in the local Japanese community. Bob and Kimie’s 38-year loving marriage lasted until her passing in 1996.

Bob returned home to Alabama in his final years and enjoyed spending time visiting with his many relatives in the area. He also reacquainted himself with Alabama barbecue and pecan pie and enjoyed riding around the countryside to visit memorable places from his past. Although his body grew weary in his final days, his mind, faith in God, and heart remained sharp and strong until the very end.

Bob is survived by his son, Mark and his wife Connie of Elkmont, AL, and his grandchildren: Jessica Eccleston (Rick) and great grandson Joseph; Kimberly; and, Christopher. His daughter, Priscilla and her husband Wade Pond of Fountain Hills, AZ, and his grandchildren Victoria and Skyler. His brother-in-law, Maurice Corlandi, and many nieces and nephews reside in the Athens/Huntsville area.

He is predeceased by many relatives to include his sisters Cathryn Wells (David) and Annie Corlandi (Maurice); his brothers Joseph P. (Bill) Cantrell (Lula Jean), Donald Cantrell (Easter), and J. W. Cantrell, and a number of their children. “Uncle Bob” was genuinely loved and respected by many and touched everyone he met in a positive and meaningful way.